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CINEMA-FOCUSED GATHERINGS... pop up all over nowadays, like so many dandelions in the heat of the springtime. And while each has its own viewpoint, and vibe, and approach to choosing films and staging a larger party, there are but a few festivals that land in towns that seem to have sprung straight from the big screen. Nevada City, with its 19th-century buildings, easily walkable streets, art-forward character, and pretty surroundings is one such straight-from-the-movies city. Call it a treat, then, to watch flicks in a Nevada City venue, only to find yourself, post-credits, standing on beautiful Broad Street or next to the historic Nevada Theatre. Nope, you haven't walked into the movies, somehow, but you have walked into the Nevada City Film Festival, also known as "the Sundance of the Sierra," which will enjoy its 16th annual go-around over the second weekend in September. That's...

SEPT. 8 THROUGH 11, 2016... and the schedule'll include documentaries, international works, and a nifty Kaleidoscope VR Showcase, which offers "the best in virtual reality film, art, and immersive experiences." That's at the Miners Foundry, but keep the Nevada Theatre in mind, which is the spot for the "Little Miss Sunshine" 10th anniversary event (complete with filmmakers Valerie Faris and Jonathan Dayton in the house and Q&A-ing). Eager to stroll this cinematic destination while reveling in cinema of all sorts, from classics to the future of VR? Early bird passes are on sale through the first day of September, cinephiles/Nevada City aficionados.